In the latest episode of “Leave Your Legacy,” host Kenyon Murray sits down with Candice Luter, an incredibly talented designer whose story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of self-belief. From humble beginnings at farmers markets to having her designs showcased on Target shelves, Candice’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Candice’s story begins with a turning point: losing her full-time job. What could have been a setback turned into an opportunity for growth. She recalls, “When I lost my job full-time, it was one of the best things that ever happened to me.” This pivotal moment pushed her to explore her creative talents more seriously. Initially dabbling in upcycling furniture and home decor, Candice soon found herself registering her business name and showcasing her work at farmers markets.

Despite having no formal business background, Candice’s passion and dedication drove her forward. “I did not set out to be a small business owner, but God always has a way of working things out,” she shares. Balancing a full-time job and single motherhood, she used her creative pursuits as an outlet and a way to provide for her family.

The journey was not without its challenges. Candice admits to struggling with self-doubt and impostor syndrome. A pivotal moment came during a collaboration with Target, where a director encouraged her to stop playing it safe and to let her true creativity shine. This advice marked a significant shift in her approach, allowing her to embrace her identity as a designer fully.

Candice’s success is not just measured by her business growth but by the impact she has on those around her. She speaks passionately about the community of women she has built in her studio, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership. “If a woman can walk into my business and work for me and know who she is, and if everything else can fall apart but this is consistency for her, that’s huge,” Candice explains.

Her journey from farmers markets to major retailers like Target is filled with moments of awe and gratitude. One such moment was designing a Decor collection for Black History Month at Target, a project that allowed her to represent her heritage and share the experience with her daughter.

Candice’s story also highlights the unique challenges and opportunities of being a biracial woman in the design industry. She navigates these complexities with grace, aiming to be recognized for her skills and artistry rather than just her background.

As Candice continues to grow her business, she envisions expanding into various product lines and fostering connections with other small businesses. Her upcoming series, “If These Walls Could Talk,” aims to address mental health and personal struggles through art, creating a deeper connection between her work and her audience.

Candice’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about sales and recognition but about the impact you have on others and the legacy you leave behind.